Thanks, George! I feel a little sheepish writing about last year's maladies, when things could have been a lot worse, of course.

I've enjoyed reading about your recent tours, and hope you can do another one in 2024.

Thanks, Greg. I guess I became an old man prematurely, because it will be a while before I can actually qualify for Medicare... But it's not *too* far in the distant future :(

Thanks for being honest and discussing your health challenges. Nobody can truly know what another person has had to deal with, but still I suspect that many of us in the "not so young and strong anymore" category can relate to your health issues. I developed a herniated disc in late 2021 - you described it very well - it took close to a year to get over it without surgery and it still occasionally reminds me of it's presence. You are young and strong and I know from experience that you will recover from these afflictions and roll on to more great cycling adventures. I'll be following along on your upcoming adventure.

Jeff, thanks for the update, and sorry about the health problems you've had to deal with. I had noticed I hadn't seen much from you online in awhile. And FWIW, I'm in that 'old man' category as well. Not quite sure when exactly that happened, but like Greg, I think that Medicare thing was a pretty good sign. I'm looking forward to following along on this tour when it happens.

I never thought the day would come, but I became an old man last year too. I reached the age where my health insurance company told me I had to start using Medicare for my primary health care provider.

I've had a few setbacks in the past and overcame them. I'm confident you are young enough to overcome them, and with a cross-country tour in the works, I think YOU are confident that you can overcome them too.

Thanks, Adam!

This sounds like a great plan, Jeff. I'm pulling for you. You don't know me, but you and Joy are some of my cycling heroes! If you need to overnight in the Chicago area and I'm around, my doors are open.

Thanks, Bill! I will try to take your advice. And I hope to take some photos of flora and fauna for you to identify during the tour ;)

Hi Karen,

Good luck with your recovery! I think it's especially hard for active people like us to have to follow "doctor's orders" after a surgery or other significant medical treatment.

Jeff

Jeff.. THANK YOU for your honest “health” comments! I am “only” 12 days after a lumpectomy and am really upset I feel and can move “fine”, except it is “too soon” to resume “normal activities”, as in biking, hiking, exercising in MY ways..yet. Your 3 + months gives me pause..I will get there..and by mid May, I will be like you—on a bicycle, touring!

At age 78, and seemingly constant new health issues, I can well relate!

All I can say is, --->NEVER QUIT